Lily has spent more than 70 years in the same home where she raised her family and built a lifetime of memories. As her son, Dean, puts it, “the house is her legacy.”

Over time, however, the house began to show its age and the heating bills began increasing. Poor insulation, rising energy costs, and outdated appliances were making it more costly to maintain. Hoping to help his 96-year-old mother remain comfortable in her home, Dean began researching solutions and was referred to Action Inc.’s Energy Efficiency Program.

During the Home Energy Assessment, Mario, Action Inc. Energy Specialist, walked Lily and her son through the home, identifying opportunities to improve comfort and efficiency.

“From the moment I arrived, it was clear how strong the bond was between Lily and her son Dean. They were welcoming, engaged, and genuinely interested in learning about her home. That kind of connection makes the work meaningful. You’re not just completing a project, you’re helping someone feel more comfortable and confident in their space.” said Mario.

Recommended upgrades included insulation in the attic, walls, and basement. During the visit, Lily also mentioned her refrigerator, more than 25 years old, leaked water daily. A new energy-efficient refrigerator was ordered that same day. “She was very pleased,” Dean said. “She loves her new fridge.”

Before weatherization could begin, Mario began the weatherization process by removing mold and replacing Lily’s 30-year-old roof. Once completed, the house quickly became more comfortable, and Lily saw lower electric and heating bills. Just as meaningful as the improvements themselves was the connection built along the way.

From the very first visit, the experience left an impression. “It was exceptionally good. All the workers were very pleasant and always had a smile on their faces.” said Lily. “Every single person who stepped into my mother’s home from start to finish was just super and treated her with the utmost respect,” Dean said. “It’s just been terrific. She couldn’t believe someone would do all this work.”

Known for her signature Toll House cookies, Lily began baking for Mario and the Action Inc. team to show her thanks. After her new refrigerator was delivered, Dean stopped by the office with four dozen cookies and half a gallon of milk. More batches followed as the work continued.

Today, her home is more comfortable, energy efficient, and better prepared for the future. More importantly, it remains the place she can always call home.